Harrogate Mumbler to launch Welfare Hub at Stray Bonfire and Fireworks to support families and young people
"It's a simple idea, but I hope it will make a real difference”
Harrogate Mumbler is launching a new Welfare Hub at this year's Your Harrogate Stray Bonfire and Fireworks, offering a safe and welcoming space for anyone needing a little extra support during the popular community event.
The initiative, led by Harrogate Mumbler founder Sally Haslewood, will be available throughout the event on Saturday 7 November, working alongside organisers Harrogate District Round Table to provide practical help for children, teenagers and families.
The idea was inspired by Sally's experience at last year's bonfire after helping a young person who became separated from her friends.
Having also seen lost children and cold, vulnerable teenagers at previous events, she wanted to create a dedicated space where people could access support if they needed it.
The Welfare Hub will provide a warm place to sit, drinking water, phone charging facilities and assistance contacting friends or family.
Warm clothing and blankets will also be available for those who need them.
Sally said: "I love seeing our community come together for events like the Stray Bonfire, and I wanted to find a way for Mumbler to give something back.
"Sometimes, all someone needs is a friendly face, somewhere warm to sit and a bit of help getting in touch with their family or friends.
"It's a simple idea, but I hope it will make a real difference.
“It's about looking out for one another and making sure people know there's somewhere they can turn if they need help."
The Welfare Hub is designed to complement the event's existing safety arrangements and will not replace emergency or medical services or deal with serious incidents.
Harrogate Mumbler is working with a team of local volunteers to deliver the initiative and hopes it will offer reassurance to those attending one of the town's biggest annual events.
The Welfare Hub will be open from approximately 5pm until 9pm on Saturday 7 November during the Your Harrogate Stray Bonfire and Fireworks.